How to make a guy want to ask you out?

I have been texting this guy I have always liked. We used to hook up (years ago). At first our texts were friendly, then he started mentioning . I am not surprised because this is what we used to do. However, I mentioned I had feelings for him and he said we would meet up sometime then. I said OK. However, I think a week went by I had no word. I kep texting him every week, basically trying to get him to ask me out. Finally, I said that I was looking for more and that I hoped he found someone he was really interested in. He said 'whatever', which really hurt, but now I am thinking about how desperate I must have seemed. In all fairness he did say he was busy (has his own company) and I think if I just backed off from the beginning he would have considered it. Because we haven't seen eachother in years (literally) so he must be thinking - why does she want to see me so bad? - ya know? Have I ruined my chances? I have always liked/though about him and I would really like to meet up to see if there is anything there. Is there a way to make this work?